Transvaginal mesh (TVM) surgery has come under intense scrutiny since it was put into practice. The first stress urinary incontinence transvaginal mesh (TVM) product was approved by the FDA in 1996. Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) transvaginal mesh followed in 2002. Numerous women from Oklahoma and across the nation soon came to be affected by serious side effects reportedly associated with their transvaginal mesh surgery.
Side Effects After Transvaginal Mesh Surgery
The side effects that women have reported from transvaginal mesh surgery include severe pain, mesh erosion, mesh displacement, bleeding, infection, painful intercourse, organ perforation, and scarring. Another problem with transvaginal mesh surgery was soon discovered by doctors- trying to remove the mesh turned out to be more difficult than normal. In many cases, the doctor would have to go in multiple times to extract all of the implanted mesh.
The reason this product managed to make it through the FDA was due to the use of the 510 (k) clause. The clause states that a manufacturer can skip clinical trials and human testing to get their product to the public if they can prove that it is similar to already approved products. TVM was very similar to traditional mesh, but manufacturers allegedly did not take into account the nature of the vaginal soft tissues. TVM has been reported to sink into and fuse with the soft tissue, making it difficult to remove.
Viable Alternatives to Transvaginal Mesh Surgery
Alternatives for treating POP and SUI do exist. POP is caused by weakness of the muscles in the pelvic region. The problem often emerges due to childbirth and pregnancy. The muscles simply aren’t strong enough to hold the woman’s organs up in her core. She needs more support, which she may be able to get through exercise of the muscles or a vaginal pessary. The vaginal pessary is a removable device that can be situated into the cavity to provide solid support for the organs.
SUI is a bit more problematic in that it requires specific support. A sling can be used to support the bladder and put slight pressure on the urethra. Getting the bladder back into place where it should be gives the woman greater control while pressure on the urethra helps prevent unwanted emissions. Slings implanted through abdominal incisions have a much better success rate.
Do I Need Legal Representation?
Oklahoma women should contact Attorney Group for Oklahoma for a free consultation if they believe they have suffered because of a transvaginal mesh surgery. Thousands of women are engaged in lawsuits against various manufacturers of these devices. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options and be connected with an affiliated attorney.
